Find a weatherization professional near Bowie, MD

The cost of insulation will vary significantly, with prices as high as $2,800. However, homeowners spend an average of $350 for insulation installation and upgrades (keep in mind this average cost includes small and big spaces). 

The actual cost you pay will depend on a number of factors, including where you live, the total square footage of your space, the cost of labor and any preparation and cleanup work needed to complete the job. The type of insulation is one of the biggest factors. Contact insulation contractors near you to get price estimates.

Waterproofing a basement costs between $500 and $3,500, on average. The cost depends on several factors, including the type and extent of waterproofing, as well as the amount of labor involved to complete the job. For example, the labor cost to apply concrete sealer is about $3-$12 per square foot. And adding an interior drainage system costs approximately $700-$2,600.

There are a number of different pros who perform basement waterproofing, including specialized contractors and companies. Your best bet to ensure your basement’s waterproofing gets done the right way is to search for local professionals who can perform the service. This is easy on Thumbtack, where you can enter your zip code and the desired service, and then make your selection after viewing customer ratings, reviews and project photos.

Waterproofing your basement can help you prevent major water damage caused by heavy rains — which means you won’t have to pay for expensive water damage restoration services. Waterproofing systems also prevent basement flooding and protect your possessions. And by keeping your basement dry, you can also prevent mold growth (and avoid having to pay for mold remediation services). Finally, your basement floor may last longer, your sump pump will work less and your home’s foundation will be more protected if you have a sound waterproofing system.

Insulating your home has many benefits and is worth the time, energy and money. Here’s why:

• Insulation reduces energy and heating costs.
• Less energy consumption also results in a reduction of pollutant emissions.
• Insulation prevents condensation from moisture and stark temperature differentials.
• And it reduces noise from passing through the walls.

The best way to hire someone to insulate your home is by searching for contractors near you online or using the Thumbtack app. Start by entering your zip code to find a list of top-rated insulation contractors in your area. Then, whittle down the search results by customer ratings and reviews. Pay special attention to the positive (and negative) reviews, and check out the contractors’ photos — these can give you an idea of the contractors’ quality of work on past insulation projects. 

Also, check licensing requirements in your state and ensure that whoever you work with has a license (if needed). The final step is reaching out to at least three or more contractors to receive cost estimates and compare bids.

Insulation is a material that slows or inhibits heat flow from one area to another. It can take many forms. A common type is fiberglass or mineral wool (aka rock wool and sag wool). Another is cellulose insulation, an environmentally friendly option that is blown into wall cavities. Sprayed foam insulation is a go-to option if you need to add insulation to existing areas and around obstructions.

When you’re having your basement waterproofed, it’s important to use the right materials for the job. A professional might coat your interior walls with masonry waterproofing products, such as sealants. The pro might also couple this with other exterior waterproofing methods, such as properly installing gutters, downspouts and drainage ditches. Talk to a basement waterproofing company near you to find out what method(s) they will use to waterproof your basement walls.

The best way to prevent moisture from seeping into your basement is to combine both interior and exterior waterproofing techniques. This method begins at construction by installing the water diversion infrastructure needed to move water away from your foundation and keep it out of the foundation materials in the first place. Then, a membrane should be installed inside to prevent any moisture that has made it past these defenses from making it all the way into your basement. 

However, always consult with basement waterproofing professionals near you to determine which method is right for your home — and your budget.

R-value — or thermal resistance value — is a measure of any surface or material’s resistance to heat flow. The greater the R-value, the more insulation the material provides. R-value depends on the thickness, density and type of insulation, as well as the moisture accumulation, age and temperature.